Many people are familiar with Martin Luther King Jr. through his powerful “I Have a Dream” speech or by celebrating MLK Day, the federal holiday observed every year on the third Monday in January. Signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983, MLK Day honors King’s legacy and his contributions to civil rights and social justice. However, there is much more to Martin Luther King Jr. than what we learn in school or hear during annual celebrations. Here are ten little-known facts about the life and achievements of this remarkable man.

 

1. Martin Luther King Jr. Was Born with a Different Name

Martin Luther King Jr. wasn’t originally named Martin. Born Michael Luther King Jr. on January 15, 1929, his father, Michael King Sr., changed his name to Martin to honor the famous Protestant Reformation leader, Martin Luther.

2. The Youngest Nobel Peace Prize Winner

At just 35 years old, Martin Luther King Jr. was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, making him the youngest recipient at the time. His leadership and unwavering commitment to non-violence in the fight for racial equality earned him this prestigious recognition.

3. A Prodigy with an Academic Edge

King was an exceptionally bright student. At the age of 15, he skipped two grades and entered Morehouse College in 1944. His academic success helped shape his future as a leader and advocate for change.

4. Arrested 29 Times

Despite advocating for non-violent protests, King was arrested 29 times throughout his life. One of his notable arrests occurred in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1958 for “loitering,” highlighting his willingness to stand up for what was right, even at great personal cost.

5. Opposed the Vietnam War

King was an outspoken critic of the Vietnam War. He believed that the war was costing too many lives, and that the funds should be redirected to support social welfare programs in the United States. His position resonated with many Americans who shared similar concerns.

6. Survived Two Assassination Attempts

In 1958, Martin Luther King Jr. narrowly survived an assassination attempt when a woman named Izola Ware Curry stabbed him with a 7-inch letter opener. Although King survived this attack, he was deeply affected by the experience and required emergency surgery. Unfortunately, he faced another attempt on his life in 1968, which ultimately took his life.

7. Won a Posthumous Grammy Award

In 1971, Martin Luther King Jr. won a Grammy Award for his 1967 speech, “Why I Oppose the War in Vietnam.” This was a posthumous honor, and it was only the 13th annual Grammy Awards. It’s a testament to the lasting impact of his words and his commitment to social justice.

8. A Family Man and a Star Trek Fan

King spent a great deal of time with his family, and one of their favorite activities was watching the television show Star Trek. In 1967, King met actress Nichelle Nichols, who portrayed Uhura on the show. King encouraged her to stay with the series, saying that it was the only show he and his wife Coretta allowed their children to stay up late to watch. Nichols later credited King with helping her recognize the significance of her role in portraying a strong, professional African-American woman on television.

9. Traveled Over 6 Million Miles

From 1957 to 1968, King traveled more than 6 million miles, delivering over 2,500 speeches and writing five books and numerous articles. His commitment to advocating for civil rights took him across the nation and around the world.

10. Streets Named After King Across the U.S.

Did you know that around 900 streets in the U.S. are named after Martin Luther King Jr.? Most of these streets can be found in Southern states, reflecting the profound impact King had on the region and the nation as a whole.

 

Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy of Equality

Martin Luther King Jr. made profound contributions to the cause of racial equality, and his work continues to resonate today. On MLK Day, people across the country take time to reflect on his achievements and to engage in community service. King’s legacy is not only celebrated through speeches and marches, but through actions that continue to promote justice and equality. Whether you’re remembering his legacy or engaging in a community service project, honoring King’s life is more important than ever.

And just as Martin Luther King Jr. earned recognition for his work, so too can individuals and organizations commemorate their contributions to causes they believe in with custom lapel pins badges, or custom medals. These personalized items serve as a meaningful way to celebrate achievements and inspire others to continue pushing for change.